"The American Psychiatric Association joins all Americans in mourning the tragic loss of Senator Paul Wellstone, a true mental health champion and a spirited leader of the U.S. Senate. His dedication to mentally ill patients, their families and those who treat the mentally ill have been paramount in advancing federal mental health parity legislation.

"Senator Wellstone was a tireless and fearless spokesperson and fighter for all persons suffering from physical or mental disabilities. Senator Wellstone was unafraid to stand up for causes in which he believed regardless of their political popularity.

"We express our deepest sympathy to Senator Wellstone's children and family on their loss. Senator Wellstone and his wife, Sheila, were dedicated people to fighting to the end the stigma of mental illness for all Americans."

The American Psychiatric Association is a national medical specialty society, founded in 1844, whose 38,000 physician members specialize in the diagnosis, treatment and prevention of mental illnesses including substance use disorders. For more information, visit the APA Web site at http://www.psych.org.